Comrades in Arms

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- A new application for mobile devices designed to enhance financial literacy for Sailors is available today and helps provide the latest info on the Blended Retirement System (BRS) that goes into effect in 2018.

The app is designed to provide Sailors with anytime, anywhere access to both training and resources that will help them make informed decisions about their financial future, which is especially critical as the military gets ready to begin BRS Jan. 1, 2018.

Are you in a violent relationship? Are you scared of your significant other? Or is your significant other perhaps scared of you?

If so, VA has a program called Strength at Home that may be able to help you.

“Veterans appear to be experiencing higher rates of physical or verbal abuse in their relationships,” said James Haskell, a social worker and group therapist with the Baltimore VA’s Strength at Home Program. "The military trains you to react quickly to a threatening situation when you’re in combat. But in a relationship, reacting quickly isn’t always the best option.”

By Chief Logistics Specialist James Hawley, Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group Public Affairs

MCMURDO STATION, Antarctica (NNS) -- After four long days of travel, Sailors from Navy Cargo Handling Battalion (NCHB) 1 arrived safely at the National Science Foundation's McMurdo Station in Antarctica, where they will be participating in Operation Deep Freeze 2017.

The annual mission, which NCHB 1 has been participating in for more than 50 years, resupplies the U.S. Antarctic Program's largest base on the most remote continent. NSF manages the Antarctic Program.

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Today, the Navy released NAVADMIN 004/17 that now allows first-term Sailors on sea duty the ability to elect to extend their expiration of active obligated service (EAOS) to complete their sea duty assignment, known as prescribed sea tour (PST).

Here are five things you need to know:

1. Why this is important to the Navy. First-term Sailors make up approximately 60 percent of the Fleet and about half that percentage separate at the end of their first enlistment. This initiative allows first-term Sailors to match their projected rotation date (PRD) with their EAOS and helps alleviate unnecessary gaps at sea. This is designed to help reduce gaps at sea and support Fleet Manning that will be created as the large FY13 enlisted cohort begins to leave sea duty.

For the upcoming Super Bowl, The Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO) is offering the opportunity to share short, recorded shout-outs (15-20 seconds) with a Navy key message from Sailors to support their favorite team. Call 1-855-OUR-NAVY (1-855-687-6289). Wait for 3-5 second pause after voice directions and record message. Once you hang-up, the audio file will automatically be sent to NAVCO. Speak clearly.

Army directive 2017-03, signed earlier this month, spells out changes to Army Regulation 670-1, the uniform policy, for the turban, worn by male Soldiers, the under-turban; male hair worn under a turban; the hijab, which is a head scarf worn by females; and beards worn by male members.

Us Labor Department, Amazon To Establish Registered Apprenticeship Program To Train Veterans For Technical Careers

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor announced today that it has signed an agreement with Amazon to establish a registered apprenticeship program to train veterans for in-demand technical careers at the online technology giant.

Deputy U.S. Secretary of Labor Chris Lu and Vice President, Global Talent Acquisition at Amazon Web Services Ardine Williams joined in a ceremony at the department's national headquarters to mark the occasion

WASHINGTON, Jan. 20, 2017 — The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors sponsored 200 surviving military family members from across the country who marched in today’s inaugural parade to honor their departed loved ones as well as all the nation’s fallen service members.

The parade commenced after President-elect Donald J. Trump took the oath of office as the 45th president of the United States.

WASHINGTON - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today that it is amending its regulation regarding fertility counseling and treatment available to eligible Veterans and spouses. VA currently provides certain infertility services other than in vitro fertilization (IVF) services to Veterans as part of the medical benefits package. This interim final rule authorizes IVF for a Veteran with a service-connected disability that results in the inability of the Veteran to procreate without the use of fertility treatment. It also states that VA may provide fertility counseling and treatment using assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including IVF, to a spouse of a Veteran with a service-connected disability that results in the inability of the Veteran to procreate without the use of fertility treatment.

Crews from Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Teams New York and San Diego and Coast Guard Cutters Chock and Heron worked with crews from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies as part of a comprehensive port security operation to protect people and waterways around the District.

ARLINGTON, Va. - The day before Donald J Trump raises his hand to take the oath as the 45th president of the United States, National Guard members from all over the nation and territories were rehearsing their roles to support the 58th Presidential Inauguration.

At last count, more than 7,500 National Guard Soldiers and Airmen were expected to serve with the specially created Joint Task Force -- District of Columbia.

WASHINGTON -- In today's digital age, when most individuals communicate regularly with family and friends over social media platforms, one should always be aware that online predators and scammers are lurking on those same platforms, actively stalking their next unsuspecting victims.

Now that the holidays are over and Valentine's Day is fast approaching, Special Agents with the Army Criminal Investigation Command, also known as CID, are anticipating a different type of holiday frenzy -- an increase in "romance scam" reports.

Over the recent holiday season, the old adage “caring is sharing” often comes to mind. Sharing gifts. Sharing time with family and friends. Sharing food (perhaps a cookie or two). These are all wonderful ways to show others that we care about them, and excellent skills to be teaching our children.

But caring is more than sharing, and is fundamentally important to helping raise our children to be empathetic, responsible, successful, and ultimately happy young people and adults. From improved social relationships to success in the workplace, when we are concerned for others and care, we all benefit.

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The 8th annual Department of Defense Warrior Games, hosted by the U.S. Navy, will kick off this summer in Chicago as more than 250 wounded, ill, and injured from all branches of service compete in Paralympic-style athletic games in the Windy City, June 30-July 8.

The DoD is inviting support from all service members, veterans, organizations, families, caregivers, and all who support wounded warrior athletes to participate in the 2017 DoD Warrior Games Spirit Poster Challenge.

My father was away on a business trip; I was 5 years old at the time. My mother had just tucked me in and gave me a hug wishing me a good night.

After my mother left the room, I remember something feeling different. My father usually comes in with my mom to say goodnight, tonight he was away. As I lay in bed, I kept thinking about my Dad and how I wished he were home with mommy and I. I wondered what he was doing? If he was also thinking about me?

WASHINGTON (Army News Service) -- Beginning in January 2018, a new Department of Defense enterprise-wide retirement system will go into effect.

The blended retirement system, which was instituted by the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act, will take effect for all Soldiers joining the Army beginning Jan. 1, 2018, and some current service members will have the option to opt into the new system.

ARLINGTON, Va. -- For many National Guard members, training, deployments and other events may strain relationships with spouses and families, hampering the member's ability to remain mission-focused. One way Soldiers, Airmen and their families can lessen that strain is through the Strong Bonds program, a chaplain-led initiative that teaches relationship resiliency skills and helps build greater relationship sustainment.

During Strong Bonds events, participants engage in a variety of hands-on activities, ranging from team-building exercises to group discussions -- facilitated mostly by military chaplains -- all with a focus designed to open communication lines, prevent toxic relationships and enhance established relationships.

HUD And VA Secretaries Join DC Mayor And Advocates To Open New Housing For Homeless Veterans

First of its kind development brings affordable housing and architectural flair to DC's NOMA neighborhood

WASHINGTON - U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Julián Castro, U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) Robert A. McDonald and District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser joined advocates and housing professionals today to open the John and Jill Ker Conway Residence, an architecturally striking apartment building with 60 units of permanent supportive housing for veterans exiting homelessness and 64 affordable and low-income units. The 124-unit mixed income building is among the first of its kind in the country to have full-time, onsite VA case managers. The soaring structure represents an unusual effort to bring outstanding architecture and design to housing for low-income and homeless populations.

BALTIMORE - The Coast Guard will establish a temporary security zone in designated waters of the National Capital Region for the 58th Presidential Inauguration effective January 15 through January 24.

Security Zone 1 will include all navigable waters of the Potomac River, from shoreline to shoreline, bounded to the north by the Francis Scott Key (US-29) Bridge, at mile 113, and bounded to the south by a line drawn from the Virginia shoreline at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport eastward across the Potomac River to the District of Columbia shoreline at Hains Point, including the waters of the Boundary Channel, Pentagon Lagoon, Georgetown Channel Tidal Basin, and Roaches Run.

TYLER, Texas -- Disaster can strike at any time. Citizen-Soldiers of the Texas Army National Guard are taught to always be prepared.

Texas Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Aaron Dias, recruiting and retention officer for the Recruiting and Retention Battalion, Region II, Team VII in Tyler, was driving back from the Military Entrance Processing Station in Shreveport, Louisiana, to his armory in Tyler with his recruit when disaster struck.

National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW), which will take place Jan. 23-29, 2017, is an annual opportunity to raise young people’s awareness about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. Sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, this year’s campaign has the theme “SHATTER THE MYTHS.”

Organizations can visit the NDAFW event map to see whether any events are planned for their area or plan their own NDAFW event by following these five steps recommended by NIDA.

Midshipman 3rd Class Jonathan Dennler, a member of the academy's 20th Company, received the medal -- the highest non­combat decoration awarded for heroism by the Navy -- for his heroic actions while leading a Boy Scout troop in July.

OKINAWA, Japan -- Four Marines were traveling toward a Yokosuka train station on their way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Tokyo, when they heard a call for help. Without hesitation, they sprinted toward the scene, weaving between pedestrians on a crowded street.

“We were running as fast as we could,” said Lance Cpl. James H. Flores, from West, Texas. “We just started to go toward the crowd. At that point, we just headed straight over there and saw the accident, and immediately we did what we could to help.”

Applications to be accepted for 2017 National Veterans Golden Age Games Event Takes Place in Biloxi, May 7-11

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will accept applications from Veterans interested in competing in the 2017 National Veterans Golden Age Games beginning Feb. 1. Veterans ages 55 and older and enrolled in VA health care may complete applications online at www.veteransgoldenagegames.va.gov. Applications will be accepted through March 1.

“VA is committed to offer sports and fitness as an integral part of a successful healthcare program, and I encourage every eligible Veteran to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Carla Carmichael, National Veterans Golden Age Games director. “There are significant health benefits to leading an active lifestyle, and in keeping with the Games motto, we want every Veteran to achieve 'Fitness For Life.’”

New Year, New You: Navy Medicine Encourages Sailors, Marines, Families to Partner in Health in 2017By James Rosenfelder, U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

FALLS CHURCH, Va. (NNS) -- Navy Medicine is encouraging Sailors, Marines, and their families to become a partner in their health in 2017.

Throughout the new year, Navy Medicine will provide Sailors and Marines information on how they can be proactive partners in their health and make healthy lifestyle choices.

"There is no better time than now to improve your readiness by improving your health," said Vice Adm. Forrest Faison, Navy surgeon general and chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED). "Living a healthy lifestyle is essential to mission readiness and can prevent health problems before they occur."

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Today, the Navy released NAVADMIN 004/17 that now allows first-term Sailors on sea duty the ability to elect to extend their expiration of active obligated service (EAOS) to complete their sea duty assignment, known as prescribed sea tour (PST).

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas - The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program will host a Warrior CARE Event Jan. 9 -13 at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph where about 120 wounded, ill or injured service men and women from across the nation are expected to participate.

CARE events provide recovering service members, veterans and their caregivers focused and personalized service through caregiver support training, adaptive and rehabilitative sports events, Recovering Airman Mentorship Program training, employment and career guidance, music and art therapy, as well as other training and therapy opportunities.

In addition to patrolling the waters in and around Boston, local Coast Guard members are bringing their nautical expertise ashore for a new, special mission in the city's Seaport District.

Walking into the Community Boat Building center is an instant escape from the city. The smell of newly sanded wood introduces the bright workspace filled with unfinished rowboats, neatly organized tools, and busy children using noisy power drills.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 5, 2017 - As tax season approaches, Defense Department civilians, military members, nonappropriated funds employees and their families will need to validate their minimum essential health care coverage as reported to the Internal Revenue Service, the Pentagon's top health official said in a phone interview Dec. 23, 2016.

Dr. Karen S. Guice, the principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, performing duties as assistant secretary for health affairs, said the Affordable Care Act, which became law in 2010, extends the availability of health care insurance to ensure people are covered through health insurance market places or employers. The Supreme Court upheld the law after it was challenged in 2012, she added.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 4, 2017 - The Army has enlisted the help of personal finance expert Suze Orman to educate soldiers and their families on money matters so they don't fall victim to predatory loans, mounting credit card debt and other financial issues.

Orman, a best-selling author and television personality, plans to offer her services free of charge to soldiers, including a seven-step online course, normally $54, and an upcoming video detailing the military's new retirement system.

OLATHE, Kansas -- With more than 16 million Americans who served in World War II, only a fraction of them still live today. Even fewer can claim to have reached the age of 100. John J. O'Leary, a retired Marine first lieutenant, is one of the lucky few.

He celebrated his 100th birthday at the Evergreen Community of Johnson County, Olathe, Kansas, Dec. 23, 2016.

In October, Carter directed suspension of all efforts to recoup money from the soldiers, Cook said. "He also asked the department to come up with a streamlined, centralized process to ensure the fair and equitable treatment of our service members and the rapid resolution of cases by Jan. 1," he added.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25, 2016 — Defense Department personnel and their families who plan to vote by absentee ballot in the upcoming presidential primaries and the general election in November should complete a registration application and request their ballots now, according to a Federal Voting Assistance Program release.

To register and request ballots, complete the Federal Post Card Application using the FPCA online assistant to fill out the form or pick up a hard-copy version from your voting assistance officer or nearest U.S. Embassy or consular office.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 17, 2016 — With the holidays now over, service members and their families might start looking toward another annual event, albeit one that generally garners far less excitement: filing taxes.

The Defense Department wants service members and their families to know they can get free tax consultations and tax-filing software through Military OneSource, according to Erika Slaton, program analyst for Military OneSource.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14, 2016 — Planning funerals for military veterans and retirees can be overwhelming for their families, and the Defense Department’s director of casualty and mortuary affairs wants family members to familiarize themselves in advance when possible to know what to expect with military funeral honors.

Deborah S. Skillman said families should learn about military funeral honors eligibility ahead of time to know what choices are available. She also recommends that family members should ensure they have access to the veteran’s discharge papers, also called DD Form 214, to prove eligibility.

Deep, life-long gratitude to The Hill is only one reason why Marshall Wallach '61 has made a generous gift of $1.2 million to endow the Wallach Family Military Scholarship.

Marshall also is motivated by his patriotism; by a desire to increase understanding between the civilian and military sectors of U.S. society; and by his belief that students who have been exposed to the life-broadening experience of growing up as the children of career officers will enrich the entire Hill community.

WASHINGTON, Dec. 28, 2015 - Following a two-year review of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the Defense Department today forwarded to Congress a legislative proposal outlining a number of reforms.

The UCMJ is the statutory framework of the military justice system, according to a news release announcing the proposed changes. The proposal is based on the recommendations of the Military Justice Review Group, which conducted a detailed analysis of each article of the UCMJ, including the historical background of the UCMJ, current practice, and comparison to federal civilian law.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2015 - As military families move frequently and face a host of concerns, finding child care can be one of the greatest challenges, Barbara Thompson, director of military community and policy's office of family policy/children and youth/special needs, said yesterday.

To streamline and standardize what can be a daunting search, the Defense Department unveiled MilitaryChildCare.com, an online resource to help military, DoD civilian and contractor families find an array of military-operated and military-subsidized child care options for children between the ages of 4 weeks and 12 years, Thompson said.

GLENDALE, Ariz., Jan. 27, 2015 - With the National Football League's all-star game in the rear-view mirror, anticipation for the league's championship -- the final pro football game of the year -- begins.

The Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, the teams preparing to square off Feb. 1 in Super Bowl XLIX, shared their appreciation for U.S. service members serving overseas during media availabilities here yesterday.

GLENDALE, Arizona, Jan. 27, 2015 - The National Football League continued its tradition of honoring America's troops Jan. 25, as participants in the 2015 NFL Pro Bowl expressed their appreciation to service members serving overseas.

The Pro Bowl serves as a celebratory all-star game for NFL players voted to the game by fans, their peers and coaches. This year's game, in front of a sellout crowd of 63,225 people, included many nods to U.S. service members.

Applications Available for 2015 Corvias Foundation Educational Grants for Spouses of Active-Duty Service Members

Applications are still available to spouses at 13 Army and Air Force installations nationwide

East Greenwich, R.I. (January 14, 2015) - Corvias Foundation, a White House award-winning private, charitable foundation committed to supporting the pursuit of higher education, are still accepting applications for the 2015 Educational Grants. The Foundation is committed to supporting military families in the pursuit of higher education and has awarded more than $5.5 million in scholarships and grants to children and spouses of active-duty service members since 2006.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2015 - As tax season begins, Defense Department officials want to remind TRICARE beneficiaries of changes in the tax laws, which require all Americans to have health care insurance.

For the first time since the Affordable Care Act passed in 2012, all U.S. citizens, including service members, their families, military retirees, DoD civilians and nonappropriated employees, must report health care coverage on their 2014 taxes, said Mark Ellis, a Defense Health Agency health care operations program analyst.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2015 - With the new year comes the annual dread of tax-filing season and the confusion and stress that can go along with it, especially for military families whose tax returns can be further complicated by frequent relocations, involvement of rental properties and other aspects of military life.

To ease the burden, the Defense Department, through Military OneSource, is teaming again this year with H&R Block to offer no-cost tax preparation to the military community with a promise of guaranteed accuracy, a service that otherwise could cost military families hundreds of dollars or more.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12, 2015 - Following the 2013 repeal of the Direct Ground Combat Definition and Assignment Rule, the secretary of defense will announce final decisions to integrate remaining closed occupations and any approved exceptions to policy on or about Jan. 1, 2016, a Pentagon official reported.

Juliet Beyler, the Defense Department's director of officer and enlisted personnel management, reported "good progress" in the Women in Service Review, which validates all occupational standards to ensure they are operational, relevant and gender-neutral by September 2015.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2014 - The Defense Department is releasing a draft request for proposals, or RFP, to modernize the military health system, the program manager for the effort said yesterday.

The draft is designed to involve private industry early in the government's requirements for the Healthcare Management Systems Modernization project, Navy Capt. John H. Windom said. The program seeks to modernize the DOD electronic health record while also working to make it interoperable with Department of Veterans Affairs and private provider electronic medical records.

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" – It’s that time of year again when people resolve to lose weight, get in shape and eat healthier, which takes dedication and determination.

To help Airmen and their families achieve those goals, the Air Force offers the Air Force FitFamily initiative which encourages families to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle. More than 20,000 family members participate in the FitFamily initiative, launched Jan. 30, 2010 as part of the Year of the Air Force Family.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2014 - Military spouses who need guidance on education and careers have a new online tool at their fingertips, a program analyst for the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program, known as SECO, said in an interview last week.

"My Individual Career Plan," or MyICP, allows spouses to build a virtual career roadmap based on their specific goals and objectives, Lee McMahon said.

MyICP launched Jan. 10 on Military OneSource's MySECO website, the primary access point for the Defense Department's Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program, McMahon said.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., Jan. 27, 2014 - Nine soldiers in the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program are members of the U.S. Olympic Team that will compete at the 2014 Olympic Winter Games, scheduled for Feb. 7 through 24 in Sochi, Russia.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2014 - A Navy officer poised to become the service's first woman and the military's first African-American woman to achieve four-star rank will be a guest of First Lady Michelle Obama tonight as President Barack Obama delivers his State of the Union address.

Vice Adm. Michelle J. Howard, currently the deputy chief of naval operations for operations, plans and strategy, was nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate in December to receive her fourth star and assignment as the vice chief of naval operations.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 17, 2014 - The Defense Imagery Management Operations Center recently signed a $5 million agreement to digitize, store and provide access to hundreds of thousands of historical images.

DIMOC is the Defense Department's central repository for visual imagery. It exists to preserve visual records first for the DOD, and then for other agencies and members of the public, said Mike Edrington, DIMOC director. Those images are then made available via defenseimagery.mil.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 16, 2014 - The U.S. military will do everything it can to ensure that Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl is returned from enemy captivity and reunited with his family, said Rear Adm. John Kirby, Pentagon press secretary.

The 27-year-old soldier disappeared in 2009 and was believed captured by the Haqqani network. A video in which he appears, which the military believes was recently made, surfaced yesterday.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 16, 2014 - The U.S. Office of Personnel Management conducted a webcast today to explain the process of applying military service time toward civil service retirement.

"In order for the [military] service to be creditable, you have to make a deposit," said OPM's Karen McManus "The deposit has to be made on service that was performed after 1956. Before 1956, they can just get credit for it."

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14, 2014 - Veterans Affairs Department officials today announced the availability of about $600 million in grants through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program for nonprofit organizations and consumer cooperatives that serve very low-income veteran families occupying permanent housing.

"Those who have served our nation should never find themselves on the streets, living without hope," VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki said. "These grants play a critical role in addressing veteran homelessness by assisting our vital partners at the local level in their efforts. We are making good progress towards our goal to end veterans' homelessness, but we still have work to do."

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2014 - The Defense Department and Sesame Street have unveiled a book and DVD to develop resilience in young children.

Barbara Thompson, the director of the office of family policy/children and youth said "Little Children, BIG Challenges" lets military children know that challenges are a part of life. Whether a child struggles with sitting quietly at the dinner table, or faces a bully at school, the beloved Sesame Street characters can help.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 9, 2014 - The Army announced today it will restructure its warrior transition units as the service prepares for a scheduled withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan and a continued decline in the number of combat wounded.

Warrior transition units are located at major military treatment facilities and provide support to wounded, ill and injured soldiers who require at least six months of rehabilitative care and complex medical management.

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" - Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard pararescue Airmen may be eligible to apply for a limited period recall to extended active duty, Air Force Personnel Center officials announced.

Extended active duty tours will be limited to one, two or three years. Applicants selected for the program will enter active duty in their current pay grade, and will be assigned to the 68th Rescue Flight, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., said Master Sgt. Taneshia Lucas, AFPC enlisted accessions.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill, Jan. 9, 2014 - More than 30 Illinois Army National Guard mechanics were activated yesterday to support the winter storm efforts.

Soldiers from across Illinois responded to Gov. Pat Quinn's request to supplement the supporting efforts of Illinois Central Management Services to the Illinois Department of Transportation with truck repair and maintenance of winter storm equipment degraded by the events over the last week.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2014 - The National Defense Authorization Act passed last month requires sweeping changes to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, particularly in cases of rape and sexual assault.

"These are the most changes to the Manual for Courts-Martial that we've seen since a full committee studied it decades ago," said Lt. Col. John L. Kiel Jr., the policy branch chief at the Army's Criminal Law Division in the Office of the Judge Advocate General.

"This is a process that began [in 2011]," he said, and "included in-depth threat assessment from the combatant commands. It was made in coordination with the Joint Staff, combatant commands and military services."

"(Editor’s note: This story is a part of a series of articles to inform and educate total force Airmen about personnel programs impacted by the Military Personnel Data System upgrade occurring in March.)"

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" - Department of Defense and Air Force officials are encouraging Airmen to review their personal data in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, or DEERS, and accomplish personnel transactions before the service upgrades the Military Personnel Data System in March.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 29, 2013 - A new education program offers a "win-win" approach to helping military community members further their careers while aiding the Defense Department's family support and child and youth development services, a Pentagon official said.

Barbara Thompson, director of DOD's office for family policy, children and youth, explained the Military Academic Advancement Program to the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2013 - The Defense and Veterans Affairs departments have released improvements to the functionality of eBenefits, a joint, self-service Web portal that provides registered users with secure online information and access to a variety of benefits resources for service members and veterans.

"The increasing capabilities of eBenefits give veterans and service members greater flexibility in securing the information they are looking for," said Allison A. Hickey, the undersecretary of veterans affairs for benefits.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2013 - A new task force will start work next month on a 120-day review of all family and military community programs across the Defense Department to determine their effectiveness and identify gaps and potential efficiencies, a senior defense official said.

Charles E. Milam, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy, will lead the Common Services Task Force at the request of Jessica Wright, acting undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, he told defense reporters here last week.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2013 - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, are expected to announce the lifting of the direct combat exclusion rule for women in the military, a senior defense official said today.

The policy change will begin a process in which the services will develop plans to implement the decision, which was made by Panetta upon the recommendation of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the official said.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 18, 2013 - Since it can directly affect force readiness, the financial health of service members and their families is a high priority for the Defense Department, and a senior DOD official emphasized that January is a great time for military families to take stock of their financial situation.

As part of a Department-wide effort to encourage military families to avoid debt by creating a workable spending plan, Barbara Thompson, director of the Pentagon's office of Family Policy/Children and Youth outlined steps families can take and the resources that are available to them for achieving financial stability.

(Editor’s note: This story is a part of a series of articles to inform and educate total force Airmen about personnel programs impacted by the Military Personnel Data System upgrade occurring in March.)

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas - Officers and enlisted Airmen getting promoted in March will experience pay delays because of the Military Personnel Data System upgrade occurring that month.

"Individuals getting promoted from Mar. 4 to Mar. 26 will not get their promotions updated in MilPDS because of the upgrade," said Lt. Col. Shelley Strong, Air Force Personnel Center operations division chief. "Their promotions will be projected in MilPDS and will automatically update as soon as the system is back online."

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas - Airmen with more than 60 days of leave at the beginning of next fiscal year may be able to carry it into the next fiscal year thanks to a provision in the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act. The provision extends the maximum leave carryover of 75 days through Sept. 30, 2015, according to Senior Master Sgt. Kreig Cressione, Air Force Personnel Center Special Programs Branch Chief.

For information about the military leave program and other personnel issues, visit the myPers website at https://mypers.af.mil.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2013 - Active duty service members and their families will be unaffected when long-delayed reductions to areas where the TRICARE Prime option is offered take place Oct. 1, TRICARE officials said yesterday.

But as TRICARE seeks to synchronize service area shifts once staggered by contract delays, some military retirees and their dependents will be moved to TRICARE Standard coverage, S. Dian Lawhon, beneficiary education and support division director, said during a conference call with reporters. Those affected reside more than 40 miles from a military treatment facility or base closure site, she said.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 11, 2013 - Preparation is nothing new to the U.S. Air Force Band and Honor Guard as they get ready for Jan. 21's 57th presidential inauguration, bringing a total Air Force presence to the massive event.

"We have a ceremonial mission, so we're always preparing for that," he said. "We do parades and ceremonies throughout the year, so it's not something new to us. The difference here is the size of it."

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – New copayments for prescription drugs covered by TRICARE will go into effect soon. The Fiscal Year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act requires TRICARE to increase copays on brand name and non-formulary medications that are not filled at military clinics or hospitals. There is no increase to copays for generic medications. Increases will be effective sometime in February, depending on when system changes can be made, and the publication of a required Federal Notice.

TRICARE Pharmacy copays vary based on the class of drug and where beneficiaries choose to fill their prescriptions. The copay for generic medications stays at $5 when a prescription is filled at a network pharmacy. There is no co-pay when generic prescriptions are filled through TRICARE Home Delivery. The new copay for a 30-day supply of a brand name medication purchased at a retail network pharmacy will be $17, up from the current $12. Beneficiaries using TRICARE Home Delivery will pay $13 for brand name drugs, up from $9. However, the Home Delivery price is for a 90-day supply.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2012 - First Lady Michelle Obama today announced a series of measures intended to increase the nation's support for caregivers of wounded, ill and injured service members.

Joined by Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis and senior military leaders, Obama announced the Labor Department's proposal to expand military family leave protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 30, 2012 - The Army Reserve, the Army Human Resources Command and the Army National Guard have joined to provide Individual Ready Reserve soldiers and their families a way to connect with the military community.

By affiliating Individual Ready Reserve soldiers and their families with a local reserve-component unit, the IRR Affiliation Program creates a support network intended to improve readiness and encourage soldiers with valuable skills to continue their service, officials said.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2012 - Members of the Joint Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Command are preparing for their first mission to North Korea in seven years to search for remains of missing U.S. Korean War veterans, a defense official reported.

The mission, expected to begin this spring, will bring together U.S. and North Korean military members for the humanitarian mission, said Air Force Maj. Carie Parker, a spokeswoman for the Defense Department's POW/Missing Personnel Office here.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24, 2012 - For a sense of what's ahead for combat rations, check out offerings at one of the many sit-down chain restaurants that have sprung up like mushrooms around the country and outside many military bases.

Food scientists at the Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center near Boston look to Applebee's, TGI Friday's and other popular chain eateries for inspiration in their quest to provide warfighters the kind of food they'd seek out at home if they weren't deployed, explained Jeremy Whitsitt, technology integration analyst for the center's Department of Defense combat feeding directorate.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19, 2012 - The Department of Veterans Affairs continues to answer President Barack Obama's call for more employment opportunities for veterans, Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki said here yesterday during a "VA for Vets" career fair and exposition that provided thousands of potential job opportunities for veterans. "Many veterans will have the opportunity to walk out of this event with a job offer," he said. "Others will leave with a second interview lined up for that final hiring decision."

The event included the opportunity to prepare resumes on site and receive training on how to participate in a job interview.

JOINT BASE LEWIS-McCHORD, Wash., Jan. 18, 2012 - The Defense Department launched a new website today for children experiencing the challenges of military deployments.

The highly interactive website, http://www.MilitaryKidsConnect.org, was created by psychologists at DOD's National Center for Telehealth and Technology here. It helps children of deployed parents cope with the stress, changing responsibilities, and concern for the safety of their parents, officials said.

With tax season starting to gear up, Military OneSource is sending this special announcement to inform you about our free tax filing services!

Military OneSource is pleased to announce the return of the Military OneSource version of the H&R Block At Home® Online tax preparation service. If you are eligible under the Military OneSource program, you can complete, save, and file your 2011 federal and up to three state returns online for free with the H&R Block At Home® tool.

SAN ANTONIO, Jan. 6, 2012 - Military researchers here have developed a cutting-edge cancer vaccine that's slashing breast cancer recurrence rates and giving some survivors a better shot at a cancer-free future.

After more than a decade of research and testing, the cancer vaccine, dubbed E-75, soon will move on to its final phase of testing to earn Food and Drug Administration approval, said Army Col. (Dr.) George E. Peoples, director and principal investigator for the Cancer Vaccine Development Program at San Antonio Military Medical Center here.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 5, 2012 - With election activity steadily picking up, defense officials are in the process of issuing regular election-year guidance to remind military and Defense Department civilians that they're subject to rules regulating their involvement in political activities.

This issue -- one the department regularly addresses during election periods -- came to light earlier this week after an Army Reserve soldier in uniform appeared endorsing a political candidate.

DENVER - Military couples often are dealing with relationship issues related to military service such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), deployment and combat exposure as well as issues common to all married couples - problems expressing feelings, fighting too much, time together, money, children, lack of fun, support, & sex. The University of Denver's Psychology Department is opening up a new therapy service focusing on helping military couples improve their relationships.

The Military Couples Clinic will offer state of the art, research-based, services for couples centered around the internationally-known Prevention and Relationship Education Program (PREP), the original program used in the Army's successful Strong Bonds initiative and the basis for a new Air Force program called "Got Your Back."

WASHINGTON, Jan. 4, 2012 - President Barack Obama signed a bill into law yesterday to streamline airport screening procedures for service members and their families traveling on official orders.

The Risk-based Security Screening for Members of the Armed Forces Act gives the Transportation Security Administration six months to develop and implement a plan to expedite screening services for service members on orders and in uniform and, "to the extent possible, any accompanying family member."

WASHINGTON, Jan. 3, 2012 - Military moves can be tough on military families, especially if a spouse is deployed. It's hard enough to get the humans in the family ready for a big move, let alone a family pet.

"Growing up as an Army 'brat,' I moved every three years from state to state and to Europe and back twice," Kari Mendoza, owner of Island Pet Movers in Hawaii, told me. "We always had pets and our parents taught us that pets are part of the family.

Our company, Kognito Interactive, is developing an online course to provide families of returning veterans with the knowledge and skills to identify when their loved one is exhibiting signs of psychological distress including PTSD and to approach and motivate them to seek help at the local VA or other organizations. The NY/NJ VA system (VISN3) will be the first to adopt this product, making it freely available to the families of over 900,000 veterans in NY and NJ.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2011 - Two military families shared their stories ? one of perseverance through deployment, one of recovering from a life-changing war injury - with the nation today.

The families, and the mother of a soldier killed in Iraq, appeared along with First Lady Michelle Obama and journalists Tom Brokaw and Bob Woodward on "The Oprah Winfrey Show." The episode, "The Bravest Families In America," aired today.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2011 - A new whole-of-government approach will bring the federal government's vast reach to help millions of service members and their families, a senior Defense Department official said yesterday.

"This is a very exciting time for those of us who have been working hard to support military families," said Barbara Thompson, director of the Pentagon's office of family policy and children and youth, said during a "DODLive" bloggers roundtable.

BETHESDA, Md., Jan. 27, 2011 - In the list of problems that can confront service members after a combat deployment, few can be harder to talk about or more devastating than the inability to resume intimate relationships.

Couples who have survived multiple combat deployments know the situation all too well.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 26, 2011 - Deborah and I attended a Jan. 24 White House event hosted by the President and First Lady announcing an exciting new effort that renews and enhances our Nation's commitment to our military families.

The Discovery Channel Announces Nationwide Casting For Their New Series "THE ASSAILANT", Produced By RENEGADE 83 "Human weapons" to compete in demanding challenges

8 November 2010: Sure, we see them on the big screen --- super---human "armies of one" who wield state---of---the---art weaponry, outwit villainous masterminds, and barely escape life--- threatening scenarios. But are there real---life versions of these operatives? Or are they only fictional characters that exist only in movies? With "The Assailant", The Discovery Channel aims to find out.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24, 2011 - White House officials released a report today that unveils a new, governmentwide approach to military family support and details a sweeping, interagency effort under way to strengthen families and enhance their well-being and quality of life.

President Barack Obama announced the results of a nearly yearlong review of military family support today in a White House ceremony attended by the Defense Department's top brass, including Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, service chiefs and their spouses.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 21, 2011 - Federal Voting Assistance Program officials will use winning entries from slogan and poster contests that start today to encourage absentee voting in U.S. elections by service members, their families and other citizens living overseas.

All U.S. citizens are eligible to enter, and the winning slogan and poster artwork will be featured on the program's website, its 2012-2013 Voting Assistance Guide and other motivational materials, officials said.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, has been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Elizabeth Warren, assistant to the President and special advisor to the secretary of the treasury on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and Holly Petraeus, who recently joined the implementation team to help in establishing the bureau's Office of Servicemember Affairs, will use information gathered from the meeting to create the new support office for military members.

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas - The Air Force is automating active-duty assignment notifications for Airmen in the ranks of lieutenant colonel and below beginning Jan. 21.

Airmen will receive an e-mail notification about their new assignments and have seven days to acknowledge their assignments through the Virtual Military Personnel Flight website. Colonels, general officers, basic military training and pipeline students will still use the current assignment notification process.

The Department of Defense announced today its introduction of the premium-based Tricare Young Adult Program (TYAP) which extends medical coverage to eligible military family members to the age of 26. Expected to be in place later this spring, TYAP implements the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of fiscal 2011. Premium costs for TYAP are not yet finalized, but the NDAA specifies rates must cover the full cost of the program.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2011 - Judy Ryan has taught English as a second language in five countries over the past 15 years, but this is her first year teaching in a war zone.

Ryan, a Department of Defense Education Activity teacher, is on a one-year deployment to Afghanistan to teach English to Afghans. She's stationed on Camp Morehead in eastern Afghanistan, surrounded by an Afghan commando training base, from which she draws many of her students.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of two servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

Air Force Col. James E. Dennany, 34, of Kalamazoo, Mich., and Maj. Robert L. Tucci, 27, of Detroit, will be buried as a group Jan. 14, in the Dallas-Ft. Worth National Cemetery.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 6, 2011 - The wife of the top U.S. military commander in Afghanistan will head up an office devoted to strengthening consumer financial protection for service members and their families, an official announced today.

In a White House blog, Elizabeth Warren, assistant to the president and special advisor to the secretary of the treasury on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, formally welcomed Holly Petraeus, wife of Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, to the bureau's implementation team, where she'll direct efforts to establish an Office of Servicemember Affairs.

BETHESDA, Md., Jan. 5, 2011 - A popular program that turns donated frequent-flyer miles into free airline tickets for wounded warriors receiving medical care as well as their families will expand this year so families of the fallen and combat wounded can participate in two upcoming events.

The Fisher House Foundation, which administers the "Hero Miles" program, plans to offer airline tickets so grieving families needing assistance can fly to Washington, D.C., this Memorial Day weekend to participate in the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors seminar, foundation President Dave Coker told American Forces Press Service.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 5, 2011 - A nonprofit organization is giving Americans the chance to sing the praises of a group often called the nation's unsung heroes: military children.

Operation Homefront, a troop- and military-family support group, is inviting people to nominate outstanding military children from all branches of service for the 2011 Military Child of the Year Award.

A great family movie THIS SATURDAY, January 8th on FOX 8/7 c. Click the link below to enter the sweepstakes & share/post to friends! Change of Plans is a heart-warming family movie that promotes awareness and compassion towards adopting and fostering children. Find a movie discussion guide, essay contest and more at http://www.moms4familytv.com

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial. Army Specialist Lawrence L. Aldrich will be buried in his home town of Fort Worth, Texas tomorrow.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 26, 2010 - President Barack Obama's fiscal 2011 budget request calls for a record $8.8 billion for military family support programs, First Lady Michelle Obama told military spouses today at Bolling Air Force Base here.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25, 2010 - The Veterans Affairs Department is beginning the process of recovering advance payments made available during the fall 2009 semester to veterans and servicemembers who applied for education benefits.

Many military spouses will spend this Valentine's Day alone while their loved ones are deployed overseas.These men and women are unsung heros who serve their home and family, while missing, loving and emotionally supporting an active duty soldier.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19, 2010 - The survivor outreach services center here officially opened the Hall of Remembrance Jan. 11 to honor all those affiliated with Fort Hood and surrounding Texas communities who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.

Catherine's, the leader in fashion and value for the Plus Size woman invites you to their Military and Government Appreciation Day savings for one day only - Monday, January 18. Military and government workers are invited to take an extra 10% off their entire purchase.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial.

A new feature on GIBill.com helps members of the military community take advantage of their education benefits.

As with any change, confusion and questions quickly followed the launch of the latest version of the GI Bill when it went into effect on August 1st, 2009. Through the years, thousands have benefitted from the GI Bill, using this benefit to further their educations. Today, this number only continues to grow.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2010 - USO officials plan to build family centers at the National Naval Medical Center at Bethesda, Md., and Fort Belvoir, Va., to continue the USO's tradition of bringing troops a piece of home.

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2010 - Some 200 wounded active duty members and military veterans will compete in the inaugural Warrior Games May 10-14 in Colorado Springs, Colo., Defense Department officials announced today.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 5, 2010 - The fiscal 2010 defense budget extends payments to servicemembers involuntarily extended on active duty under the so-called "Stop Loss" program, but those who received a bonus for voluntarily re-enlisting or extending their service no longer qualify for retroactive Stop Loss pay.

By Army Sgt. Jon E. Dougherty Special to American Forces Press Service

NEAR THE AFGHANISTAN-PAKISTAN BORDER, Jan. 5, 2010 - The tired, frazzled and hungry soldiers of the Missouri Army National Guard's 3rd Platoon, 1141st Engineer Company, rolled into their combat outpost here well after dark, worn out and in desperate need of a break.

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Steven Petibone Special to American Forces Press Service

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 27, 2009 - New York Army National Guard members offered hands-on CH-47 Chinook helicopter training to Canadian air force aircrews readying for deployment at a flight facility here last week.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2009 - As deployed U.S. troops pull up to their TV screens this weekend to watch the Arizona Cardinals take on the Pittsburgh Steelers during Super Bowl XLIII, there's likely to be a special sense of commemoration at Forward Operating Base Tillman in Afghanistan.

TRIANGLE, Va., Jan. 27, 2009 - The National Museum of the Marine Corps here has maintained its position as a top Virginia attraction, with more than 500,000 visitors recorded in 2008, museum officials said.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of two U.S. servicemen, missing from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2009 - Army Spc. Sergio Trejo always dreamed of owning his own home. But after he was injured by a homemade bomb during his second tour of duty in Iraq, he said he felt his dream was out of reach. The explosion left him with a broken back, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 21, 2009 - Wyoming's committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve has been busy for 18 months preparing businesses that will be hard-hit by the largest reserve deployment in state history.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 21, 2009 - As Wyoming prepares for the largest National Guard deployment in state history, much of the planning has gone into helping those who will be left behind for a year in communities scattered across the rural state.

Salt Lake City, Utah (January 16, 2009) Western Governors University (www.wgu.edu), the leading non-profit online university, will extend the deadline for the WGU Reservists and National Guard Scholarship http://www.wgu.edu/tuition_financial_aid/reservists_overview.asp to June 30, 2009. This scholarship is designed to help members of the Reserves and National Guard attend college online.

The Department of Defense announced today that the 4th Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, based in Fort Richardson, Alaska, is scheduled to deploy as part of the next rotation of forces in Afghanistan. The 25th Naval Construction Regiment, based in Gulfport, Miss., will deploy as an additional unit in support of coalition operations in Afghanistan.

Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Installations and Environment, B.J. Penn, today signed a record of decision for the Mayport Homeporting Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Navy's decision is to implement the preferred alternative, which is to homeport a single nuclear powered aircraft carrier (CVN) at Naval Station (NAVSTA) Mayport, Fla., and to complete associated infrastructure modifications. These include dredging, infrastructure and wharf improvements, and construction of CVN nuclear propulsion plant maintenance facilities.

KIGALI, Rwanda, Jan. 14, 2009 - The Air Force has begun airlifting Rwandan peacekeeping equipment and supplies from here to Sudan's Darfur region as part of a United Nations-African Union peacekeeping mission.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12, 2009 - A troop-support organization is gearing up for the early part of the new year, collecting Valentine, Easter and St. Patrick Day cards and gifts for servicemembers and the health professionals who take care of them.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2009 - Having a loved one go off to war or return from war can be very emotional for families. Many are so overwhelmed that taking pictures of these cherished milestones can be forgotten or just put to the side.

ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md., Jan. 7, 2009 - "Welcome to one of the greatest moments of your career."

With those words, Air Force Col. Dennis M. Layendecker, commander, music director and conductor for the U.S. Air Force Band, impressed on his airmen the importance of their upcoming mission supporting the presidential inauguration.

With the "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" offer, active and retired U.S. military personnel, including active members of the United States Coast Guard and activated members of the National Guard or Reserves, can enjoy complimentary, multi-day admission into Disney's U.S. theme parks, and additional special ticket offers for family members and friends.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2008 - Rather than paying a tax specialist, servicemembers and their families can obtain free assistance to prepare and file their annual tax returns through a special military program, a Defense Department tax advisor said here today.

The Department of Defense (DoD) announced today that is has begun recruiting for the National Language Service Corps (NLSC) Pilot, a public civilian organization composed of volunteers engaged on-call to provide diverse language services across a broad range of local, state and federal government departments and agencies. The opportunities for service will vary from emergency relief to international crises to immediate national need?wherever language skills are needed.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25, 2008 - More than 180 representatives of 122 troop-support groups gathered today at the Pentagon to share information and insights about ways to boost their efforts during the third annual America Supports You National Summit.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25, 2008 - Many servicemembers who have experienced combat, and their families, are familiar with the term "combat stress." The effects of combat, however, aren't limited to those directly connected to the experience.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing from the Korean War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24, 2008 - Simply communicating while deployed to Iraq can be challenging for servicemembers, but one airman discovered that trying to plan a surprise marriage proposal was nearly impossible.

It has been said that military life is "not for the faint of heart." But neither is it without its benefits and blessings. The editor of the bestselling book series, A Cup of Comfort, seeks powerful and positive stories about how military life affects the personal lives of service men and women, how family affects soldiers' on the job, and how military life affects families.

Military Absentee Voting 'Primary' Concern for Federal Voting Assistance ProgramBy John J. Kruzel American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Jan. 18, 2008 - For the Federal Voting Assistance Program, getting deployed troops and their families engaged in the current election season is a primary goal.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 17, 2008 - As U.S. servicemembers and Defense Department civilians ponder candidates during the election season, they should realize there are limits placed upon their involvement in certain political activities.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 16, 2008 - Servicemembers returning from deployment and their families can find help readjusting to their lives at home through traditional and holistic therapies offered by a long-established Colorado group.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2008 - About 3,200 U.S. Marines will be sent to Afghanistan this spring on a one-time deployment to help NATO forces there expand on successes gained against the Taliban over the past year, according to a Defense Department news release issued today.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 11, 2008 - Emphasizing that they expect a defense authorization act eventually to pass into law, Army officials indicated yesterday that National Guard recruits who enlist before it does won't be held to their contracts if the law doesn't provide the recruiting bonuses they're expecting.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2008 - U.S. and British officials are monitoring less than 20 British soldiers who may have received U.S. blood or blood products since 2001 that did not meet U.S. testing standards.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2008 - Army Secretary Pete Geren is crediting a new National Guard program that brings new recruits into the active Army with a commitment to finish up their tours in the Guard or Reserve as an example of innovative initiatives that are helping maintain the force.

FORT BELVOIR, Va., Jan. 7, 2008 - Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division preparing to deploy to Afghanistan are being issued sensors that attach to their helmets to measure the impact from blasts, roadside bombs and other activities.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 3, 2008 - New Year's resolutions frequently include good intentions, such as joining a gym, calling parents or organizing closets. But through its America Supports You program, the Defense Department is helping Americans resolve to support the nation's servicemembers throughout 2008.

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., Jan. 31, 2007 - The Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region is stepping up its air patrols in the Miami-Dade area to increase security during Super Bowl XLI activities.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2007 - Military Health System officials are working on several ways to improve health care delivery and management and save servicemembers money, the Defense Department's top doctor said here yesterday.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2007 - With only a few days left before the voting comes to a close, one troop-support group is asking for assistance in putting it as a forerunner in winning $50,000 to support the men and women of the armed forces.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2007 - As the military health care system transforms its governance structure, the services must work together to sustain the high quality of care servicemembers and their families receive, a top Defense Department official said here yesterday.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2007 - Sometimes all it takes for a wounded veteran to begin healing is being surrounded by family and friends. That's the premise on which the Minnesota-based Veterans Airlift Command was founded.

FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas, Jan. 29, 2007 - With the star-studded grand opening just a day away, Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Richard A. Cody yesterday officiated over the first awards ceremony at the Center for the Intrepid here.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 26, 2007 - Actor and military advocate Gary Sinise earned praise for his portrayal of a disabled Vietnam veteran in the 1994 movie, "Forrest Gump." Sinise now is helping to build a memorial for America's 3 million living disabled military veterans.

By Staff Sgt. Thomas J. Doscher, USAFSpecial to American Forces Press Service

BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Jan. 26, 2007 - U.S. military chaplains serving in Afghanistan want troops who have been extended to know support is there for them. "Hang in there; we're right with you," is what chaplains want recently extended soldiers to know, a senior chaplain here said.

The Department of Defense announced today Secretary of Defense Robert Gates approved a request from commanders to extend for up to 120 additional days 3,200 soldiers of the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division currently operating in Afghanistan. This extension will provide military capability for NATO to maintain the initiative and build upon the success achieved in promoting stability and security, while denying safe haven for the Taliban.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24, 2007 - More than 600 Texas National Guardsmen were activated by the state's governor Jan. 22 to support a surge operation targeting crime and international drug and human trafficking along the state's 1,200-mile border with Mexico.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24, 2007 - The Army's "Blue to Green" program, designed to allow airmen, sailors and Marines affected by force shaping to move to the Army, recently hit a milestone, a Defense Department official said here today.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2007 - Injured in Iraq, Katie Kriesel's husband is facing a long recovery at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. But her employer, Eagle Global Logistics, is making sure she'll get to stay by his side.

CAMP TAJI, Iraq, Jan. 22, 2007 - The generosity of an infantryman's parents, working in coordination with a major pizza restaurant's corporate office, a unit family readiness group, and a major shipping company, led to a feast for some soldiers here Jan. 18.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19, 2007 - The Military Channel is asking servicemembers across the armed forces to submit videotaped stories about their service in the global war on terrorism for broadcast on television, company officials said.

You may have seen the series or heard from the producers of, "My War Diary", but I'm writing pertaining to a little different, but very important initiative. Both the CEO of Discovery Communications and the top officials at the Pentagon are committed to this project.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 18, 2007 - Following President Bush's recent announcement on the new strategy for Iraq, Defense Department officials have emphasized the importance of heightened support to military families throughout the nation.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 17, 2007 - When the Girl Scouts combined their knack for selling cookies with their dedication to community service, they cooked up the Gift of Caring program. Each Girl Scout troop can choose a Gift of Caring partner to receive donated boxes of Thin Mints, Do-si-dos, Trefoils and other baked favorites throughout the cookie-selling season.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 16, 2007 - More than 600 citizen-soldiers and airmen in Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas have been called out in response to the latest in a series of severe winter storms to blanket the Midwest with snow and ice.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 16, 2007 - With flags around the nation still at half staff in memory of the late President Gerald R. Ford, Vice President Richard B. Cheney called today's naming of the Navy's newest aircraft carrier in Ford's honor an even more fitting tribute because it looks to the future.

Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Michael L. Dominguez stated at a meeting Thursday with military and community support organizations, "As additional forces deploy in support of the new strategies in Iraq, programs and policies at home will immediately respond to the needs of families.These families will need grassroots support as many are National Guard and Reserve and are distributed across many states rather than on or near military installations."

PRESS ADVISORIES from the United States Department of DefenseJanuary 15, 2007

The Task Force on the Future of the Military Healthcare is conducting its first public meeting at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16, in the Board Room at the Crystal City Marriott, 1999 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Va.Officials expected to address the task force include Dr. David Chu, under secretary of Defense for personnel and readiness, and Dr. William Winkenwerder, Jr., assistant secretary of Defense for Health Affairs.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12, 2007 - The defense department has trained thousands of military health care providers to employ a quality management system that's designed to minimize human errors in hospital operating and delivery rooms, a senior defense official said yesterday.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14, 2007 - The Fisher House Foundation will expand its efforts to help injured U.S. troops and their families by building five new comfort homes per year until 2010, the foundation's chairman said last night on CNN's "Larry King Live."

By Chief Petty Officer Jeffrey McCoy, USNSpecial to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14, 2007 - The University of Miami Hurricanes have reached out to share a little bit of home with the men and women of the Navy Provisional Detainee Battalion, "The Sand Pirates," currently serving at Camp Bucca, Iraq.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 11, 2007  President Bush today presented the Medal of Honor, the nations highest decoration, to the family of Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham, who died shielding his fellow Marines from a grenade blast in Iraq in April 2004.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2007  President Bush tonight announced plans to increase the size of the Army and Marine Corps so theyre better postured to confront 21st-century threats and praised troops serving today for their service and sacrifice.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2007  President Bushs new strategy for Iraq, announced tonight in a televised speech to the nation, includes more than 20,000 additional U.S. troops on the ground in Baghdad and Anbar province, increased responsibility for the Iraqi government and Iraqi security forces, and more diplomatic and economic initiatives.

By Chief Master Sgt. Gonda Moncada, USAFSpecial to American Forces Press Service

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 10, 2007  In a scene reminiscent of emergency measures seen in cities across the country after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, downtown Austin was temporarily blocked to people and traffic Jan. 8 so authorities could investigate the unexplained deaths of more than 60 birds.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 9, 2007  The National Guard may be operating at its busiest pace in years, but the new senior enlisted representative looking out for the troops said theyre talking a lot more about pride than concerns as they juggle the demands of families, civilian careers and military responsibilities.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 3, 2007  After Army Sgt. Pisey Tan was wounded in Iraq, he depended on others to do wash his clothes and perform his other household tasks. Now, thanks to a member organization of the Defense Departments America Supports You program, chores that once were menial duty are now a measure of personal freedom.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 3, 2007  U.S. involvement in the Dec. 29 execution of Saddam Hussein amounted to providing helicopter transport at the request of the Iraqi government, a U.S. military spokesman said in Baghdad today.

By Staff Sgt. Patrick Moes, USASpecial to American Forces Press Service

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait, Jan. 2, 2007  Football fever took on a new dimension yesterday as Third Army and U.S. Army Central Command troops watched the last game of the NFL regular season, and members of Chicago Bears 1985 Super Bowl Championship team signed autographs here.

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29, 2006  About 165 members of the Colorado National Guard have been activated since yesterday in the wake of the states second blizzard in 10 days, the state adjutant general said today.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2006 - "Jointness" is an inescapable reality for future military operations, and the military health care system will be no different, two Defense Department officials said here today.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2006 - The military health system has revolutionized battlefield medical care in the past four years, reducing fatalities and raising the quality of care to all-time high levels, two Defense Department officials said here today.

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., Jan. 29, 2006 - For more than a year, Albanian army Maj. Ilirjan Balliu has served as the senior national representative for Albania with the 63-nation coalition organized to combat global terrorism.

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